The exponential growth in connected vehicles is amusing. While automotive companies are bragging about the advantages, there are downsides they should be worried about.

Thinking of it from a consumer’s perspective, the rapid development and deployment of connected vehicles are becoming a fearful subject. In a survey conducted on ten thousand adults in the US and the UK, 70% polled that the automotive manufacturers should develop a stout security solution before rolling their vehicles on the streets. Experts even mentioned that the need for robust security protocol is becoming essential than ever.

Most of the profit-oriented companies are eager to debut automated vehicles in the market; the socio and economic benefits they can generate is massive. However, the risk factors cannot be overlooked.

Amongst all, cybersecurity is the biggest threat to the automobile industry. As the self-driving cars are gaining rapid momentum, hackers are being drawn towards the technology. However, a major malicious attack on autonomous vehicles is yet to happen.

But two white-hat hackers demonstrated the potential hazard of connected vehicles, when the remotely hacked a Jeep Cherokee and controlled its operational dashboard in the middle of a highway. The event, however, compelled Chrysler to recall 1.4 million vehicles to improve the security protocols.

Majority of connected vehicles operate via the internet. And if the hackers manage to crack the code, the results can be devastating. They can take control of entire vehicle and even cost the life of the passengers.

To prevent all this, manufacturers must first improve the security factors. Without proper assurance, the threats of automotive cyber-attacks will only amplify as our society transcends to autonomous vehicles. As mentioned by Senator Edward J. Markey, “Drivers shouldn’t have to choose between being connected and being protected.”

Consumers, on the other hand, should understand the risks that come with autonomous vehicle technology. The hazards still overlap the security solutions, and without full information buying a connected vehicle can be synonymous to jumping into the pit of death. Consumers should make informed decisions, and consider each security feature before making a purchase.